Reflections on AP Exams 2020: Strategies and Outcomes
As I look back on my performance in the 2020 Advanced Placement (AP) exams, it is fascinating to see how my efforts translated into grades. These exams are critical for high school students aiming to earn college credit and showcase academic prowess. In this article, I will share my experiences and strategies for excelling in three of the more challenging AP courses: AP Computer Science A, AP Seminar, and AP World History: Modern. Let's dive into the details.
AP Computer Science A
From the first day of class, I approached AP Computer Science A with dedication and a learning mindset. The course was intense, and I dedicated myself fully to every class activity. While coding projects encouraged teamwork, I preferred to work independently. This decision allowed me to focus on my own learning pace and problem-solving skills. Additionally, I was strategic in managing my time, completing assignments in class to save homework time.
As the AP exam date approached, I made a concerted effort to prepare thoroughly. I practiced with old Free Response Questions (FRQs) from 2010 to 2018, which were available on College Board's website. Despite the ease of the class, honing these skills proved invaluable. My hard work paid off when I received a perfect 5 on my exam. Comparatively, only 5% of students worldwide, including those from India and the UAE, achieve this score.
AP Seminar
The AP Seminar course was a game-changer for my writing and analytical skills. However, the initial lectures by the teacher were somewhat confusing, making the learning curve steeper. The real turning point came when I delved into the rubric provided for the Individual Research Report and Individual Written Argument assignments. It became apparent that the rubric was a crucial guide, instructing me on how to structure my arguments effectively.
To improve, I analyzed both high-scoring and low-scoring sample papers. This allowed me to recognize patterns and implement best practices. By tailoring my argument style to resemble that of the top-scoring papers, I was able to achieve a perfect 5 on the AP seminar exam. Only 22% of the 64 students who took the exam received this grade, highlighting the difficulty and the effectiveness of my approach.
AP World History: Modern
The AP World History: Modern course presented a significant challenge due to heavy homework assignments that required extensive weekend commitments, often reaching 20 hours. On weekdays, I would start homework as soon as I arrived home after school, finishing late into the evening. The workload left little time for social activities or relaxation, making it a demanding course.
Despite the difficulty, the exam period offered a silver lining. The modifications due to the COVID-19 pandemic allowed the exam to focus on broader themes rather than minute details, which proved beneficial. Consequently, I managed to secure a high score of 4 on the AP History exam. While it may have not been a perfect 5, the circumstances in which the exam was conducted contributed significantly to this outcome.
Conclusion
My journey through AP exams in 2020 underscores the importance of strategic preparation, self-discipline, and a focus on key resources. From coding in isolation to mastering writing techniques and managing heavy coursework, these experiences have been invaluable. Focusing on the right strategies, like practicing with past questions and using rubrics, can significantly enhance performance in challenging courses. As I move forward, I am grateful for these intensive learning experiences and the skills I developed.